Studio Routines that Support the Business
by Debra Keirce
The following article was written by Debra Keirce, a regular contributing author to The BoldBrush Letter.
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Studio Routines that Support the Business
Have you ever stopped to consider your studio habits? I mean the ones so ingrained they’ve slipped off your to-do list entirely.
For example, every time I pass my easel, I instinctively take mental notes about the next steps in my painting. Even if I’m not planning to paint that day, this check-in happens automatically. It’s not scheduled. It’s just part of me now.
I’ve come to believe that the quiet, behind-the-scenes routines we develop, both intentional and subconscious, have a major influence on how our art businesses function. So, isn’t it worth taking a moment now and then to notice what we’re actually doing on autopilot? Some habits are helpful. Some, not so much.
Let’s start with the routines we purposefully add. If you’re trying to add practices that build a more efficient work schedule, for instance, ask yourself if they are realistic. Are they sustainable? I’ve learned to keep my routines simple. If they’re too complex, I know they’ll fall away on the first chaotic day. For me, simplicity is essential.
Then there are the routines we hang on to, even when they no longer serve us. I used to block time to rewatch old art DVDs I bought years ago. At some point, I’d absorbed everything from them. When my DVD player finally broke, I took it as a sign, and didn’t replace it. Instead, I shifted that time toward researching new techniques employed by artists I admire. It’s the same amount of time, but a lot more inspiration.
Every time I pause to examine my default studio habits, I’m surprised by what I find. Some patterns sneak in quietly. Some are energizing—like the charcoal sketching I sometimes do after finishing a painting session. I can’t explain why I started, but it gives me a sense of closure and sparks ideas for what’s next. Other habits aren’t helpful, and I have to have a talk with myself - like this tendency to treat my paint tube collection to new colors at the end of a project. Honestly? I already have enough paint to last the next ten years.
Like anything else, my studio routines evolve. But today, as I take inventory, I want to share a few habits I’m actively working to stop, and a few I want to nurture. Maybe something here will resonate with you, or inspire a reflection.
Studio Habits I’m Letting Go Of:
Traveling just because I can. I’m being more selective about trips so I don’t wear myself out unnecessarily.
Entering exhibitions out of habit. I’ve been submitting to the same shows for years, but I’m reevaluating whether they’re still the right fit for my goals.
Volunteering without reassessment. Some of the roles I’ve taken on may no longer be relevant or impactful.
Collecting more tools and supplies. I don’t need any more props, gadgets, or brushes right now—it’s time to use what I have.
Studio Habits I’m Committed to Keeping:
Showing up every day. Even on “lifey” days, I try to do something, however small.
Continuing to learn. Staying curious keeps my work fresh and evolving.
Focusing on a consistent body of work.
Staying present on social media. Even if engagement looks quiet, many followers are quietly watching and rooting for me. I’ve seen it when we meet in person.
Studio routines are personal and ever-changing. What are yours? Are there any habits you’d like to build or break? I’d love to hear what’s working for you, and what’s not. We might just help each other find a new routine.
Debra Keirce
www.DebKArt.com
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As you can see, at FASO, we actually do, and,
we are the only website host we know of that does.
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Thanks. Very handy checklists. They're on the wall.
Much needed advice!